ISL 2024-25: NorthEast United Secures 4-0 Victory Over East Bengal in Shillong
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Synopsis
In a commanding performance, NorthEast United FC achieved a 4-0 victory against East Bengal FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong, marking their first win of the ISL 2024-25 season. Nestor Albiach and Alaaeddine Ajaraie were instrumental in securing the win, helping the Highlanders finish the league stage strongly.
Key Takeaways
- NorthEast United FC secured their first league win in Shillong.
- Nestor Albiach and Alaaeddine Ajaraie were key players in the match.
- The Highlanders scored four goals, with Ajaraie scoring from a penalty.
- East Bengal FC struggled to create scoring chances.
- NorthEast United finished the league with 38 points, setting up for playoffs.
Shillong, March 8 (NationPress) NorthEast United FC triumphed over East Bengal FC with a score of 4-0, marking their inaugural victory of the league at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 on Saturday.
The Highlanders secured their 10th victory of the season, concluding their 24 matches with 38 points as they gear up for the playoffs. This match also marked the first time NorthEast United FC achieved a win in Shillong by scoring three or more goals this season.
In the first half, East Bengal FC had few opportunities, although Cleiton Silva nearly caused a stir for NorthEast United FC with a threatening free-kick in the 22nd minute. Silva's effort, however, soared over the crossbar.
NorthEast United FC responded by advancing along the left flank, where Alaaeddine Ajaraie sent in a cross for Nestor Albiach at the 32-minute mark. Nestor attempted a powerful header, but East Bengal FC's goalkeeper Debjit Majumder made the save.
Ajaraie later back-heeled a pass to Tondonba Singh, who then delivered a cross for Nestor in the 18-yard box. Nestor expertly directed the ball into the bottom right corner with his left foot, breaking the deadlock in the 59th minute.
The Highlanders surged forward as Nestor played a crucial role in a dynamic offensive play from a corner kick. Guillermo Fernandez delivered a curling cross for Macarton Nickson, whose shot was saved by Debjit. Ajaraie seized the rebound and slotted it into the bottom left corner, doubling the lead in the 66th minute.
Ajaraie continued to shine as East Bengal FC left him ample space to navigate the defensive third. He aimed to penetrate the opposition’s box from the left side and reached the six-yard box.
Tanmay Das fouled Ajaraie, who then converted a penalty into the bottom right corner in the 79th minute. Das was shown a red card for another foul in the 84th minute, leaving East Bengal at a disadvantage.
NorthEast United FC maintained their offensive pressure, earning set-piece opportunities, including corner kicks, to keep East Bengal FC on the back foot.
A corner kick in the 86th minute saw the Highlanders striving for another goal, and Mohammed Ali Bemammer capitalized on a loose ball, finding the bottom right corner for the fourth goal of the night, ending their league stage on a high note.
